Definition

1. Noun:
   • An indefinite time in the future; a future time, especially one that is pleasant or anticipated. It refers to a vague, unspecified point later on.

Usage

• The word "by-and-by" is a somewhat old-fashioned or literary noun. It is used to refer to a future time, often with a sense of hope, patience, or inevitability. It is typically used in the phrase "in the by-and-by."

Examples

• Noun:
  • We'll deal with that problem in the by-and-by. (We will address that issue at some point in the future.)
  • He promised to visit his family in the sweet by-and-by. (He promised to visit his family in a pleasant future time.)

Advanced Usage

• "in the sweet by-and-by": This is a common fixed phrase, often with religious or sentimental connotations, referring to a blissful afterlife or a hopeful future.
  • The hymn speaks of meeting loved ones in the sweet by-and-by.

Variants and Related Words

• By and by (adverbial phrase): This is a related but distinct adverbial phrase meaning "before long; soon."
  • The pain will lessen by and by. (The pain will lessen soon.)

Synonyms

• Future: The time that is to come.
• Hereafter: A future existence or time.
• Tomorrow: The near future (used figuratively).

Notes on Meaning

• The noun "by-and-by" (hyphenated) specifically denotes an indefinite future time. It should not be confused with the adverbial phrase "by and by" (without hyphens), which means "soon" or "after a short time."

Noun

1. an indefinite time in the future
   • he'll get around to it in the sweet by-and-by